Understanding Elevated Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Solutions
Elevated bilirubin levels? Hello Doctor: I would like to inquire about the issue of elevated bilirubin levels in my recent two health check-ups, with the most recent results showing a significant increase compared to the previous one. In 2020, my total bilirubin was 1.51 mg/dL, d...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, elevated direct bilirubin along with other liver function indices may indicate liver or biliary tract-related diseases. Your abdominal ultrasound showed no abnormalities, other liver indices are normal, urine bilirubin is negative, and there are no obvious liver or biliary...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Solutions
Fish Bone Ingestion and Its Impact on Bowel Health
Fishbone and bowel issues? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with COVID-19 and was in isolation from June 17 to 24. On the evening of June 22, while eating mackerel, I swallowed a fish bone (approximately 1 cm long). At that moment, I felt a slight prick but did not have a sensation ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If convenient, a fecal occult blood test can also be performed.[Read More] Fish Bone Ingestion and Its Impact on Bowel Health
Understanding Normal Gallbladder Ultrasound with Elevated Bilirubin Levels
Abdominal ultrasound shows normal gallbladder? I apologize, but I would like to ask about abdominal ultrasound results. The gallbladder appears normal, but blood tests show total bilirubin (T-Bil) at 1.3 mg/dL and direct bilirubin (D-Bil) at 0.21 mg/dL. Is this considered normal?...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Normal margins, largely insignificant; it is sufficient to recheck in 3 to 6 months or during the next health examination.[Read More] Understanding Normal Gallbladder Ultrasound with Elevated Bilirubin Levels
Understanding Hepatitis B Surface Antigen and Antibody Test Results
Hepatitis B surface antigen, surface antibody, core antibody? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my health examination results. On December 6, 2021, my test report showed a negative Hepatitis B surface antigen (value 0.37), a positive Hepatitis B surface antibody (value 100...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. A positive Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) indicates the presence of the Hepatitis B virus. 2. A positive Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) indicates immunity against the Hepatitis B virus. 3. A negative Hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) indicates that ther...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Surface Antigen and Antibody Test Results
Is an HBsAg Level of 8382 Serious? Understanding Hepatitis B Risks
An abnormal hepatitis B test result with a value of 8000 is considered serious? Hello Doctor: I recently had a health check-up, and my HBsAg (EIA) for hepatitis B surface antigen came back at 8382 (+). Does this mean I need medication? I am unsure if I am a carrier. What does thi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
They are carriers. Medication should be considered along with viral load, liver function, and ultrasound results, and can be discussed with a gastroenterologist.[Read More] Is an HBsAg Level of 8382 Serious? Understanding Hepatitis B Risks
Why Greasy Foods Cause Diarrhea: Insights for IBS Patients
Eating greasy foods can cause diarrhea? Hello doctor, I tend to have diarrhea whenever I consume greasy foods. I have previously undergone gastroscopy and colonoscopy, both of which were normal. I would like to know what might be causing this issue or if there are any other tests...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is advisable to avoid high-fat foods, as sometimes food can be the influencing factor, and there may not necessarily be other issues. Additionally, pay attention to gallbladder and pancreatic problems, and avoid alcohol (as it can affect pancreatic function and irritate...[Read More] Why Greasy Foods Cause Diarrhea: Insights for IBS Patients
Understanding Pancreatic Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Pancreatic issues Hello, Doctor. During my sophomore year of high school, I suddenly felt discomfort in my upper abdomen, which I wasn't sure was stomach pain (it felt more like a pressure pain). I went to the emergency room, where blood tests showed a white blood cell count...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is not pancreatitis; a follow-up visit is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Positive Hepatitis B Test Results: Next Steps for Treatment
Positive for Hepatitis B? Hello Doctor: Today I received my health check report and saw that my Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is positive. I reviewed my health check reports from previous years, and they all showed negative results. The report from September 9, 2011, was ne...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, regarding Hepatitis B, a previously negative HBsAg can now be positive, indicating a possible Hepatitis B infection. Blood tests can be performed in an outpatient setting to confirm and assess liver inflammation. Most adults infected with Hepatitis B (about 80%) will impro...[Read More] Understanding Positive Hepatitis B Test Results: Next Steps for Treatment
Understanding Hepatitis C Testing: Accuracy and Implications
Follow-up Question #182059 Hepatitis C Consultation Dear Dr. Chen, Thank you very much for your response and guidance regarding the consultation on hepatitis C (#182059). I understand that hepatitis C is generally not transmitted through saliva. I would like to ask Dr. Chen furt...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Ah Xiang: Only in cases of acute infection (such as needle stick injuries) will there be abnormal liver function, but antibodies may take 3-6 months to become positive. During this period, it is necessary to measure the viral load to make a determination.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis C Testing: Accuracy and Implications
Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort and Indigestion Issues
Dyspepsia and upper abdominal discomfort? Hello Doctor, thank you for your response a few days ago. I would like to ask a few more questions. I am 27 years old. When standing, I notice that the area under my right rib cage (upper right abdomen) feels more prominent and hard when ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Ultrasound examination of the liver and gallbladder has a high degree of accuracy. If the ultrasound does not reveal any issues, there is generally no need for excessive concern. However, if there are still suspicions of a problem, it is advisable to consult a physician fo...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort and Indigestion Issues
Understanding Persistent Indigestion and Abdominal Discomfort
Dyspepsia with upper abdominal discomfort? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing recurrent indigestion for over two years, which has led to weight loss. I underwent an endoscopy last year that showed normal results, and the doctor mentioned that my gastrointestinal tract is qui...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. If you are experiencing anxiety and tension, you may consider trying medication prescribed by your physician. 2. Pay attention to your eating habits; for example, irregular meal times or eating too quickly, and whether you are consuming irritating or hard-to-digest food...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Indigestion and Abdominal Discomfort
Understanding Persistent Indigestion and Abdominal Discomfort
Dyspepsia and discomfort in the upper abdomen? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing recurrent indigestion for over two years, which has led to weight loss. I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy last year, and the results were normal; the doctor mentioned that my gast...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. If you are experiencing anxiety and tension, you may consider trying medications prescribed by a physician. 2. Pay attention to your eating habits; for example, irregular meal times or eating too quickly, and whether you are consuming irritating or hard-to-digest foods....[Read More] Understanding Persistent Indigestion and Abdominal Discomfort
Persistent Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Abdominal discomfort? Hello Dr. Chen, Since March and April of last year, I have been experiencing discomfort in my upper left abdomen. I visited two gastroenterology clinics, where I underwent gastroscopy, and the doctors diagnosed me with excessive gastric acid and gastroesoph...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There should be no major illnesses; you can start taking the medication with peace of mind. Normalize your diet and exercise, and then monitor your symptoms.[Read More] Persistent Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Understanding Hypoechoic Nodules and Mild Fatty Liver: What You Need to Know
Hypoechoic liver nodule / Mild fatty liver disease Hello doctor, I recently had a routine health check-up, and after an abdominal ultrasound, a nodule (2.02 cm) was found in the right lobe of my liver (a hypoechoic nodule). I have mild fatty liver, and my AFP and AST levels are n...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Need to discuss with the attending physician.[Read More] Understanding Hypoechoic Nodules and Mild Fatty Liver: What You Need to Know
Effects of Antacids on Liver Health in Hepatitis B Patients
I would like to inquire about the effects of gastric medications and acetaminophen on the liver? Hello, doctor: I am a patient with hepatitis B. Due to severe bloating, I went to the hospital for an examination and found that I have acute hepatitis, which resulted in my GPT level...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It can be continued. Additionally, acute hepatitis can cause indigestion, nausea, and vomiting, so a light diet with small, frequent meals is necessary. Prompt medication treatment for hepatitis should be initiated, and if jaundice is significant, hospitalization is required.[Read More] Effects of Antacids on Liver Health in Hepatitis B Patients
Understanding Fatty Liver: Is It the Same as Cirrhosis or Hepatitis?
I have fatty liver disease? I was diagnosed with severe fatty liver during a recent health check-up. Does this mean I have cirrhosis or hepatitis? Can appropriate exercise help eliminate this condition? I've been experiencing bloating and frequent burping lately; is this rel...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, cirrhosis indicates severe liver fibrosis, which may lead to impaired liver function. In severe cases, symptoms may include jaundice, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and bleeding from esophageal varices. Fatty liver disease is characterized by the accumulation of triglyce...[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver: Is It the Same as Cirrhosis or Hepatitis?
Understanding Fatty Liver: Is It Linked to Cirrhosis or Hepatitis?
I have fatty liver disease? I was diagnosed with severe fatty liver during a recent health check-up. Does this mean I have cirrhosis or hepatitis? Can appropriate exercise help eliminate it? I've been experiencing bloating and frequent burping lately; is this related?
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, cirrhosis indicates severe liver fibrosis, which may impair liver function. In severe cases, symptoms such as jaundice, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and esophageal variceal bleeding may occur. Fatty liver disease is characterized by the accumulation of triglycerides in...[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver: Is It Linked to Cirrhosis or Hepatitis?
Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Left upper abdominal discomfort with pain upon pressure? Doctor, I apologize for bothering you, but I would like to inquire about something. Over the past few months, I have noticed a dull pain in the upper left abdomen, near the lower rib. It hurts when I stand and when I press ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please seek medical attention.[Read More] Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Abdominal Distension and Weight Loss: Gastrointestinal Concerns
Abdominal bloating, feeling more full in the morning upon waking than before going to bed (sensation of abdominal distension)? Six months ago, my weight began to gradually decrease, and it has dropped from 50 kg to 40 kg (height 153 cm). Blood tests show liver enzymes over 70. I ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please seek medical treatment.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Distension and Weight Loss: Gastrointestinal Concerns
Understanding Digestive Issues: From Irregular Bowel Movements to Stress
Frequent episodes of diarrhea? I have been observing my condition for a while, but my bowel movements are always unstable; sometimes they are normal, and other times I have diarrhea. After prioritizing my health, I researched online and came across information about colorectal ca...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Please pay attention to your dietary habits by reducing oil and avoiding刺激性 foods, and manage your mental stress appropriately. The issues identified through ultrasound (gallbladder polyps, left renal cyst, kidney stones, and fatty liver) are likely unrelated to the diarrh...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: From Irregular Bowel Movements to Stress